Crime/Police
International Anti-Narcotic Operation Leads to Major Drug Bust in Anguilla Waters
In a coordinated effort to combat narcotic smuggling, an international operation involving US authorities, the UK National Crime Agency, and the Royal Virgin Island Police Force (RVIPF) led to a major drug bust in Anguilla waters.
The RVIPF Marine Unit, in collaboration with the Royal Anguilla Police Force (RAPF) and HM Anguilla Customs Department (HM Customs), intercepted two vessels within Anguillan Territorial waters.
On July 7th, the joint operation successfully apprehended six individuals and seized two vessels suspected of carrying a significant amount of cocaine. The vessels were escorted to Anguilla, where the Royal Anguilla Police Force and HM Customs are currently handling the investigation and processing of the seized vessels.
Preliminary estimates suggest that the seized vessels contained over 1.5 metric tonnes of cocaine, neatly packaged in 60 bales. The exact value of the confiscated narcotics is yet to be determined, but it is believed to be substantial.
This operation serves as a testament to the effectiveness of international collaboration among law enforcement agencies in the Caribbean.
The successful interception and seizure of the drug-laden vessels highlight the ongoing commitment of law enforcement entities to combat the illicit drug trade.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has confirmed that Tarik Aaron was arrested shortly before midnight on Friday, April 17, on extradition orders issued by authorities in the United States Virgin Islands, and has since appeared before the Magistrate’s Court.
According to police, the arrest was carried out in connection with a request from USVI authorities, though further details have not been disclosed.
Aaron appeared before the Magistrate’s Court today and was denied bail.
Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
Crime/Police
Two Men Arrested in Free Bottom After Police Recover Modified Firearm, Drugs and Ammunition
Dalfree Rodriguez De La Rosa, 22, of Hannah’s Estate, Tortola, and John Harvey, 33, of Purcell Estate, Tortola, were arrested on April 16, after officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) recovered a modified firearm, cannabis and ammunition during a stop-and-check operation in Free Bottom, police said.
According to the RVIPF, officers on patrol conducted the stop and discovered a Glock pistol, a quantity of cannabis and 13 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition. The firearm was later identified as a prohibited weapon that had been modified for fully automatic fire.
De La Rosa has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply, possession of explosives and possession of a prohibited firearm. Harvey has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply.
Acting Commissioner Kenrick Davis, speaking on behalf of the Senior Command Team, commended the officers involved in the operation.
“Their continued professionalism, teamwork, and commitment to duty have significantly contributed to the safety and security of our community,” Davis said.
The RVIPF said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to address illegal firearms and drug-related activity across the Territory.
Six new police vehicles have been added to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) fleet as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement capacity in the Territory.
The force stated that the vehicles will support policing operations by improving mobility, response times and visibility across communities in the Virgin Islands.
“These additions form part of our continued efforts to enhance operational capacity and visibility across our communities,” the RVIPF said in a statement.
The vehicles are expected to be deployed on roads throughout the Territory as they begin active patrols in support of law enforcement duties.
The RVIPF also indicated that additional vehicles are expected to arrive in the coming months, further expanding the resources available to officers.
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